Bob Mackie, the celebrated American fashion designer known for his extravagant and theatrical costumes for some of the entertainment industry’s biggest stars, died on September 14 at the age of 87. Over a career spanning decades, Mackie established a reputation for creating outfits that combined boldness, glamour, and a strong sense of spectacle.

Mackie’s collaborations with high-profile clients like Cher, Tina Turner, Liza Minnelli, Diana Ross, Elton John, Madonna, and RuPaul helped solidify his status in the worlds of music, film, and television. His designs often featured dazzling embellishments, feathers, and intricate beadwork, designed not just for fashion but for performance and stage presence.

One of Mackie’s most iconic moments came in 1986, when Cher defied the expectations of the Academy Awards by wearing a strikingly revealing black top and skirt ensemble with a matching headdress. The outfit was intended to express Cher’s frustration after being passed over for a Best Actress nomination despite critical acclaim for her role in the film "Mask." Instead of competing for an award, Cher was assigned to present, a snub she responded to by making a bold fashion statement.

While Mackie initially warned that the outfit might distract from the award presentation, Cher insisted it would be received without issue. The look, designed to be a visual protest and declaration of individuality, made a lasting impression at that year’s ceremony held in Los Angeles.

Mackie’s long-standing partnership with Cher began in 1967 when he designed costumes for "The Carol Burnett Show." Their mutual creative synergy flourished with Cher’s variety show in the early 1970s, where budget concerns initially arose due to the extravagance of the costumes. However, the attention the costumes drew from viewers led to increased support, resulting in more lavish and sparkling designs.

In addition to Cher, Mackie had a close working relationship with Tina Turner, designing costumes that reflected her powerful stage persona. After Turner left her marriage and began rebuilding her career, Mackie helped transform flea market finds into memorable performance pieces, including a shimmering silver gown with dramatic wings and a zebra-print dress with a tail that accentuated her movements.

Mackie’s influence extended beyond individual outfits to shaping the visual identities of some of the most iconic performers of the late 20th century. His signature style was characterized by a willingness to push boundaries in fabric, form, and flair.

At the time of his passing, Cher was by his side in Palm Springs, California, along with Mackie’s design director Joe McFate. Cher described their final moments together as filled with joy, recalling laughter and conversations celebrating his life and work. She expressed comfort in the belief that Mackie was now “in someplace better” continuing to design.

Bob Mackie’s legacy lives on in the vibrant and unforgettable costumes that defined multiple eras of entertainment, embodying creativity, boldness, and a commitment to self-expression.